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ACTRA appeals arbitration to avoid question on the legality of its strike

TORONTO, Jan. 31 /CNW Telbec/ - The Canadian Film and Television
Production Association (CFTPA) was astonished to learn that ACTRA is appealing
the court decision passed down by Madam Justice Pepall in favour of the
CFTPA's request to appoint an arbitrator.
"Especially after expressing its concern of wasting time and money with
'fruitless legal strategies,' I fail to see the logic in ACTRA appealing this
decision," said John Barrack, Chief Negotiator, CFTPA, "Not only does this
action further illustrate ACTRA's total disregard for the instability it has
caused within the industry, but it goes one step further in trying to
dismantle the IPA and prolong the court process."
In her decision, Madam Justice Pepall noted that ACTRA had on several
occasions refused to enter into arbitration. This appears to be one more
attempt to avoid having to answer the question of whether or not their strike
is legal and whether the continuation letters are valid.
"This appeal directly contradicts previous statements made by ACTRA that
it wants a deal and is willing to get back to the bargaining table," said Guy
Mayson, President and CEO, CFTPA. "As I've said countless times before, I
would urge ACTRA to resume bargaining and resolve the few remaining issues as
soon as possible for the benefit of the entire industry."
"If ACTRA really believes the strike is lawful then why would they be
afraid of letting an arbitrator answer the question," added Barrack.
The CFTPA is a non-profit trade organization that works on behalf of
almost 400 companies engaged in the production and distribution of
English-language television programs, feature films, and interactive media
products in all regions of Canada.

For further information:

For further information: For media inquiries, please call: Jeff Brinton,
Director of Communications and Media Canadian Film and Television Production
Association (CFTPA), (613) 233-1444, ex 227, jeff.brinton@cftpa.ca